Bad behaviour in Easington Lane and Elemore tackled as part of police’s summer campaign

Fiona Thompson

Rogue riders and boozing youngsters have been put on the hit list by a police team which is aiming to crackdown on neighbourhood nuisances.

Antisocial behaviour in Easington Lane and Elemore is being targeted by police following concerns, which have led to plans to bring in a camera to monitor a trouble hotspot.

There is no place for antisocial behaviour in our communities and I want to assure local residents that their concerns are being addressed and that our officers are doing everything within their power to tackle this problem.

Neighbourhood Inspector Lisa Musgrove

Complaints been made about an increase in youths creating disorder by riding motorbikes irresponsibly and inconsiderately and nuisances caused by underage youths drinking alcohol.

Officers from Houghton Neighbourhood Policing Team are carrying out regular patrols in the area and local young people are being encouraged to get involved in youth activities in the area.

The Safer Sunderland Partnership XL Village is also in the area and will continue to be so during the summer months.

Before the school holidays neighbourhood officers visited local schools to help identify youths who are responsible for the motorbike disorder, those identified have been visited at home by police, in partnership with the local authority and housing association, and spoken to in front of their parents.

A local petrol station has been offered advice and support from police in relation to serving fuel to people under 16.

In addition, the area’s multi-agency group has provided funding for a 3G camera which will be situated in the area of Brick Garth and Elemore Lane.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, said: “There is no place for antisocial behaviour in our communities and I want to assure local residents that their concerns are being addressed and that our officers are doing everything within their power to tackle this problem.

“I’m pleased that Northumbria Police has joined up with partners to educate the young people on the consequences of alcohol misuse and anti-social behaviour. We’re sending out a clear message to those who cause problems - their actions won’t be tolerated.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Lisa Musgrove said: “We’re aware motorbike disorder and anti-social behaviour in Easington Lane and Elemore has been an ongoing issue and would like to let the local community know that we are doing everything we can to tackle the issue.

“We continually work with our partner agencies, such as the local authority and housing associations, to take steps to prevent the disorder.

“This year we have seen a slight fall in the number of reports, however, that does not mean we are complacent.

“Throughout the summer months officers are carrying out regular patrols throughout Easington Lane and Elemore both to reassure local residents and take action against any incidents of antisocial behaviour.

“In particular, motorbike disorder is not just a nuisance but it can be dangerous for other road users especially pedestrians. If anyone has information about the identity of those involved I would encourage them to come forward and please let us know so that we can ensure the appropriate action is taken against them.”

Councillor Harry Trueman, deputy leader of Sunderland City Council, and chairman of the Safer Sunderland Partnership, said: “Aside from the risks and dangers of serious injury by riding irresponsibly, these riders are a nuisance to others in and around our communities.

“In law, footpaths and pavements that run alongside the road are actually part of the road.

“So even pushing a motorbike along means that the rider and motorbike are on the highway.

“Crash helmets must be worn at all times and even when motorbikes are being pushed along the road, footpath or pavement. Motorbikes should also be insured, have a valid MOT and an Excise Licence.

“As the inspector has said, if anyone has further information to discourage these irresponsible motorbikers then do let us know.”